Fireworks aren't all that's scheduled in Breckenridge on the 4th

Breckenridge’s Fourth of July celebration kicks off Wednesday evening with a softball game at 6:30 p.m. in the varsity football field.

Each participant however, must make a $5 donation to the fireworks fund.

That will be followed by a homerun derby in which contestants – also contributing $5 donation – can try to knock the ball out of the park.

“It’s fun to watch,” said Dave Briggs, one of the organizers.

Advertisement

Maple Leaf amusements will also set up a carnival around noon Wednesday and tickets are only $1, he said.

Thursday is the big day with a host of activities lined up in addition to the carnival.

A vintage car show begins at 10 a.m. as does a basketball tournament, Briggs said.

A pedal pulling contest for the little ones is set to begin at 10:30, followed by the village’s new Splash Park, which opens at 11 a.m. and runs until 7 p.m.

At noon and again at 3:30 p.m., Paul Tedhams will stage a magic show and a tractor pull is set for 1 p.m. at the water tower. At 2 p.m., sand volleyball is on the agenda, followed at 3 p.m. with a decorated bike parade.

All those wishing to participate in a “squeal your wheels” parade may do so at 3 p.m.

“The chief of police said that’s the only time you can squeal your wheels in Breckenridge,” Briggs said.

A musket firing event also takes place at 3 p.m.

The concert begins at 5 p.m. with the Breckenridge High School Jazz band, followed by smaller groups of high school musicians, he said.

At 7:30 p.m., the band DC True performs and at 9 p.m., MaClaren Brennan take center stage.

In between bands will be the chip drop contest, similar to Bossy Bingo, a blueberry pie eating contest and last, a watermelon seed spitting contest.

Trophies will be awarded, he said.

Fireworks will begin at about 10 p.m.

Refreshments will be available for purchase.

The event is sponsored by the Breckenridge Chamber of Commerce.

Linda Gittleman may be reached at 989-463-6071, lgittleman@michigannewspapers.com or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/lgittleman.